What to know about QLD Government’s procurement policy

The Queensland Government has introduced its Procurement Policy 2026, setting an updated strategy for how billions of dollars in goods and services are purchased each year. For local Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs), this isn’t just a policy update — it’s an insight into how to win work and grow in a changing economy.

Why is this update important

Government procurement represents a significant share of Queensland’s economy. The new policy places stronger emphasis on supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), First Nations businesses, and sustainability outcomes. If your business wants to compete for government contracts — especially with major projects like Brisbane 2032 and regional infrastructure — understanding these priorities is essential.

Why this matters for SMEs

The policy outlines a 30% SME participation target, meaning at least 30% of government procurement spend will go to small and medium businesses. Processes are being streamlined to make it easier for SMEs to tender, and a new public procurement spend portal will provide transparency on opportunities and government spend. This is a clear signal: SMEs of all sizes and capabilities are encouraged to participate in government contracts. 

Policy priorities - why they matter

The Queensland Procurement Policy is built around five strategic pillars that suppliers should align with:

1. Value for Queensland - Deliver value for taxpayers’ money and ensure fair and open competition
2. Local opportunities - Create opportunities for local suppliers, with an emphasis on small and family businesses and regional enterprises, wherever practical.
3. Easy to do business - Simplify procurement processes to make it easier for suppliers to do business with government.
4. Open to new ideas - Encourage innovation and new market-driven approaches to solve challenges faced by government.
5. Practical economic, environment and social impact - Drive sustainable procurement practices and build a diverse supplier base including support for social enterprises and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses.

How alignment improves competitiveness

Government buyers are focused on more than just cost. They want suppliers who can demonstrate broader impact — supporting local economies, creating jobs, reducing emissions and waste, supporting First Nations businesses and ethical supply. Businesses that clearly show how they deliver on these priorities will stand out in tender evaluations and be seen as strategic partners, not just vendors.

How businesses can align

• Show local impact : Highlight how your business supports the Queensland economy.
• Embed sustainability practices : Include sustainability initiatives, ethical sourcing, and waste reduction and recycling in your tender responses.
• Engage early : Attend industry briefings and market sounding sessions to understand upcoming opportunities.
• Partner strategically : Consider collaborations with Indigenous businesses or social enterprises to strengthen your bid. 

What resources and programs can support alignment

 There are several resources and programs businesses can use to build competitiveness in alignment with the procurement policy priorities.

Local impact

Find local suppliers and workforce through the following platforms.

• MEFSC Database - Discover a database of Sunshine Coast manufacturers and service providers.
• ICN Gateway - Find local businesses ready for contract work.
• Sunshine Coast Jobs Hub - Utilise this free platform to find Sunshine Coast workforce.
• Workforce Evolve: Learn strategies to develop and attract a robust workforce. Access free mentors who can support your workforce development.

Social impact

First Nations businesses and workplace diversity is critical to delivering on social impact. These platforms and resources support social impact.

• Supply Nation - Connect with over 5,000 verified First Nations businesses.
• Black Business Finder - Find a network of First Nations businesses based in Queensland. 
• Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations: Identify incorporates First Nations businesses across Australia.
• Social Enterprise Finder : Access certified social enterprises through the Social Traders.
• Queensland Social Enterprise Council directory : Listed People and Planet First verified social enterprises.
• Diversity and inclusion in government - Queensland Government is delivering on several plans to create more inclusion and diversity in the state public sector. Read how to align your business with the Queensland Government.
• Inclusive workplaces resources - The Australian Human Rights Commission has developed resources to support employers in fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. 

Environmental impact

Leverage the following programs and platforms to help align with environmental impact.

• ecoBiz: Access free sustainability coaches, carbon calculators and climate risk and adaptation tools that are user-friendly for SMEs. ecoBiz is Queensland Government funded and delivered through Business Chamber Queensland.
• ASPIRE Circular Economy Marketplace: Build circular economy capability by utilising ASPIRE as a resource exchange platform. Sunshine Coast businesses can use the platform for free to source reused materials while diverting waste from landfill.

Interested in supplying to Queensland Government?

• Read the Queensland Procurement Policy 2026
• Find  current and future tendering opportunities .
• Create a free  profile on the Supplier portal  to register in the marketplace
• Register for our supplier updates .

The bottom line

Queensland’s procurement reform is a game-changer for SMEs. By aligning with these priorities now, businesses can position themselves to win work and contribute to a more sustainable, inclusive economy.